Sioux City Attorney Provides 5 Easy Tips for Handling Difficult News

“An injury in the workplace!!!”

“A government inspector is at our door!!!”

“We have received a discrimination complaint!!! ”

Those words can cause your adrenaline to start pumping and your mind to start racing towards a worst case scenario in the blink of an eye. So how do we process difficult news? Panic and wonder “Why me?” How can you make sure not to let unexpected and unanticipated bad news define our life going forward.

1. Pause, Reflect, and Seek Assistance

First, it’s important not to panic and to take time to pause, reflect and seek immediate assistance. No problem of significance should be handled alone or in a vacuum. Breathe!!! “This too shall pass,” said a wise man. It’s easier said than done --- right??? Bottom line --- try to calm yourself, as hard as it may be. Sometimes closing your eyes for a few minutes, focusing on your breathing, thinking of pleasant memories, or even repeating the same word over and over can be calming.

2. Be Positive

Be positive.   Remind yourself about previous successful coping strategies and difficult situations that you have resolved. How did you get back on track? Was it talking to someone who experienced the same problem?   Remember, a call for help and immediate assistance from a trusted friend or advisor may be the next step to take. Never go it alone. Lions, and Tigers, and Bears --- Oh My!!! Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz was never alone. Nor need you be as well.

3. Plan Accordingly

This does not mean you should not acknowledge the potential negatives ways this news may impact you, and, therefore, plan accordingly. Don’t create scenarios that may never happen. Take it one step at a time. At the same time don’t stick your head in the sand and deny the realities of the bad news. Being able to balance both perspectives will help you handle bad news.

If you have further questions, continue and follow our Risk Manager on Your Side or contact Bruce Smith at Goosmann Law Firm, 410 5th Street, Sioux City, Iowa 51101.  Phone: 712-226-4000.